Issue

When you launch an Adobe app, you get an error stating that sign-in failed, there is an activation limit, or the maximum number of activations has been exceeded. These errors occur if you try to use the app on too many computers. To resolve the error, follow the steps in the subsequent sections.

CS6, CS5, CS4, Acrobat XI, Acrobat X, or Acrobat 9

A single license for Adobe CS6 and earlier applications lets you install an app on two computers. However, you can use the application on only one computer at a time.

To install the application on a third computer, deactivate the application on the computer on which you no longer want to use the software. Then, activate it on the new computer.

1. Can't access your old computer? If you can't access your previous computer (for example, you reformatted the hard drive or lost the computer), don't worry. We can help you deactivate your app from your old device. Make sure that you have your serial number or Adobe ID handy, and then contact us.

2. Uninstalled your app without deactivating? Uninstalling the app from a computer does not necessarily deactivate its license. If you uninstalled your app and are getting a message that you've exceeded your activation limit, try reinstalling the app on the old computer. Then, follow the steps below to deactivate the app on the old computer and activate it on your new one.

3. Want to deactivate your application?Deactivation disconnects an application from a valid user license. Once deactivated, you can reactivate at any time, if you choose. You do not need to uninstall an application from your computer to deactivate it. Uninstalling an application does not necessarily deactivate its license.

Acrobat DC

Subscription version

Non-subscription (stand-alone) version

If you have a stand-alone, non-subscription version of Acrobat DC, you can use the app on up to two computers. To use Acrobat on a third computer, simply sign out of Acrobat on one of the other computers.

Note:

You must be connected to the Internet for these steps to work.

Connect to the Internet and launch the app on one of your other computers.

Choose Help > Sign Out.

Try activating the app on the new computer again.

On the old computer, connect to the Internet, and then launch the app.

Choose Help > Deactivate.

On the new computer, connect to the Internet, and then launch the app.